The Oldest Trees Around

South of the county line, just past Cornelius Pass, lies one of our area’s newest parks. The Burlington Creek Forest Park is part of the larger Portland Metro master parks plan finalized by the Metro Council in 2016, based on a 2013 voter levy approving funding for large-scale restoration projects in the Portland metro area.

The trailhead lies along McNamee Road just past the troll bridge (McNamee Trestle). Dogs are not allowed here as it is designated a wildlife preserve, and even dogs on leashes create a constant predator presence which interferes with the behavior of native wildlife.

There are multiple loop hike options in the park. Starting off on the gravel road brings you through a younger second growth forest (logged in the early 1990s) weaving underneath power lines, crossing some stream ravines.

The road splits at 0.5 miles just below a water tank reservoir.

This road junction starts the larger 3.3 mile loop which can total close to six miles if all smaller loops are hiked as well. Taking a right brings you uphill and into a heavier forested area. Heading straight/left will continue to follow the power lines and after a few miles will provide great views of Portland and Mt Hood.

Either way, you’ll eventually cross through the Ancient Forest Preserve, a 38-acre Forest Park Conservancy property which has protected some amazing trees. [More information can be found on page 37 of this Forest Park report.] A bench and wooden stairwell signal the start of about a one mile loop into a time before ours. This side loop has sometimes been closed in spring and early summer to protect Bald Eagles nesting in the huge trees, although it was open during both seasons this year.

As you climb up the steps the age of the forest climbs with you. After a stream crossing and winding your way through firs, hemlocks, and cedars, you will be welcomed to a true old growth grove. Trees over two hundred years old tower over the diverse habitat giving a glimpse into what once was.

There are a couple junctions within the grove, both times taking either path will eventually loop you back around to the gravel road.

I was quite surprised to see such ancient trees so close to Portland.  I expect Burlington Creek Forest Park to be a great birding destination as there is impressive habitat diversity within a relatively small space.

This easy looping hike is a nice getaway for south county residents or anyone on their way to Portland. 

---

Burlington Creek Forest Park at a glance

What: forest hike, old growth trees

Where: From Highway 30 going south from Scappoose, turn right onto McNamee Road just 400 yards past Cornelius Pass. Drive 0.4 miles, passing under the McNamee Trestle (troll bridge) and turn left under first road. Trailhead is at 45.64502, -122.84578. Don’t block the gate.

Hiking: The main loop is 3.3 miles, you can find ~6 miles of hiking total by hitting every loop option. Trail map is available at Oregon Hikers

Camping: none

Notable Wildlife: forest songbirds, woodpeckers, owls, bald eagles, woodland salamanders

Property status: Metro